Blog

5 Things We Learned on Day 1 at CONEXPO 2020

Massive Construction Conference Soldiers On Despite Virus Scare.

You couldn’t help but feel like forces were working against CONEXPO 2020, the world’s largest construction industry gathering. The most obvious hurdle to the massive Las Vegas conference being the ongoing coronavirus concern, and the negative impact that is having on global gatherings. Also putting a damper on the proceedings was the surprisingly soggy weather conditions, a head shaker for a desert city like Las Vegas. Considering how many of the major the exhibitors display outdoors – Caterpillar, Liebherr, Volvo, and many more – it made the opening day somewhat subdued. But the conference trudged on with Purell bottles in hand and a no-hand-shake policy in effect. Here are a few highlights from Day One at CONEXPO – CON/AGG 2020.

Caterpillar Digs in with Global Operator Challenge

Under overcast skies, nine finalists competed for the coveted title of Global Operator champion. A big crowd came out for the event, as it’s one of the few opportunities to see the machines in action. Co-hosting the festivities was Dirty Jobs celebrity Mike Rowe!

Komatsu unveils new D71PXi-24 dozer

Komatsu was on site to showcase its new products, including the D71PXi-24, a hydrostatic transmission (HST) dozer with advanced intelligent machine control (iMC 2.0). Its dozing control can operate automatically 100% of the time, and its lift layer control automatically spreads fill from the existing terrain with the press of one button. Thanks Komatsu for the great gift! (seen above)

Liebherr celebrates 50-year history in the United States

Liebherr, a German powerhouse of construction equipment, is celebrating 50 years in business in America. Some of its display models received a heavy dose of the red, white and blue. The crawler excavators (seen above) boast higher engine power, enhanced undercarriages, better performance levels and more.

Volvo goes missing at ConExpo 2020

Volvo Construction announced a week prior to the festival that it will not be attending due to coronavirus concerns. It was a major blow considering it is one of the biggest exhibitors at CONEXPO 2020. Its new models, including Volvo’s largest excavator, the EC950F, remained on display.

Caterpillar celebrates those who 'do the work'

Chairman and CEO Jim Umpleby kicked off the Caterpillar press conference, where hundreds were in attendance to hear from the OEM powerhouse. Caterpillar’s theme this year is “your work matters – the work customers do to build a better world.” Cat had 10 machines making their North American debut.

Don’t miss more coverage of #ConExpo2020.

Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for photos and updates from #ConExpo2020. Also, our Facebook page will be a hub of activity during the week of the event. Tune in for daily updates, video from the conference, and more.